Maintaining a garden requires the right and effective tools. Pruning shears are essential for pruning plants, shrubs, and trees with precision. Whether you're an amateur or experienced gardener, choosing the right shears is essential for ensuring clean cuts and preserving the health of your plants. In Geneva, where climate variations influence plant growth, it's even more important to have a high-quality, robust, and ergonomic tool.
But with so many models available on the market, it can be difficult to make the right choice. What type of pruning shears should you choose? What criteria should you consider? What are the best materials for a durable and effective tool? In this guide, we help you select the perfect pruning shears for your gardening needs in Geneva, based on the specifics of your green space and your maintenance habits.
The essential criteria for choosing pruning shears
Good pruning shears should combine efficiency, comfort, and durability. To achieve this, several factors should be considered before purchasing. The type of blade, the tool's ergonomics, the quality of the materials, and additional features are all aspects that will influence your choice. Let's take a closer look at these different criteria to help you find the ideal pruning shears .
1. The type of pruning shears
The first criterion to consider is the type of pruning shears . There are several models, each suited to specific uses. The wrong choice can result in uneven cuts, damage your plants, or make your job more difficult.
Bypass pruning shears
The bypass pruner , also called a bypass pruner , is ideal for pruning living and tender branches. It works by using two blades that slide against each other, like scissors. This design allows for a clean and precise cut, thus limiting the risk of injury to the plant. This type of pruner is recommended for:
- Rose bushes and flowering shrubs : it allows you to cut cleanly without crushing the stem.
- Young shoots and green branches : its clean cut promotes good healing of the plants.
- Gardeners looking for a precise tool : it offers great ease of use and great maneuverability.
However, this type of pruning shears is not suitable for dead or very thick branches, as it requires more force and may wear out more quickly in these conditions.
Anvil pruner
Anvil pruners are designed for cutting dead wood or hard branches. They operate with a single sharp blade that presses against a flat surface (the anvil), making it easy to cut through thick branches.
Its benefits include:
- High cutting power : it is ideal for branches with a large diameter.
- Better blade durability : Unlike the straight-edged model, the single blade is subjected to less pressure.
- Reduced effort : the anvil system makes cutting easier without requiring too much force.
However, this type of pruning shears has a major drawback: they slightly crush the stems, which can harm the health of living plants. They are therefore recommended for pruning and maintaining dead branches, but should be avoided for pruning fragile plants.
Ratchet pruner
The ratchet pruner is an interesting option for those looking for a tool that requires minimal effort. Thanks to its progressive mechanism, it allows you to cut branches in several stages, thus reducing the strain on the hand.
This type of pruning shears is recommended for:
- People with weak hands : It is perfect for gardeners suffering from osteoarthritis or joint pain.
- Large branches : it allows you to cut without forcing, while obtaining a clean cut.
- Prolonged use : it limits fatigue and muscle tension during a long gardening session.
However, it can be a little slower to use than classic models, due to the multi-step cutting system.
2. Size and ergonomics
Pruning shears should be comfortable to use, especially if you spend long hours tending your garden in Geneva. A poor grip can cause finger and wrist pain, reducing your efficiency. Here are some points to check:
- Pruning shears should fit your hand. Pruning shears that are too large will be difficult to handle, while those that are too small will limit their cutting power.
- Weight : Pruning shears that are too heavy will tire your hand, while ones that are too light may lack robustness. You need to find the right balance between strength and maneuverability.
- Handles : Choose ergonomic handles with a non-slip coating. Models with a rubber coating provide a better grip and reduce fatigue.
- The locking system : to avoid any risk of accident, good pruning shears must be equipped with a secure closing mechanism.
If you're left-handed, there are pruning shears specifically designed for you. Choosing an ambidextrous model or one specifically designed for your dominant hand will make it easier to use and improve your cutting precision.
3. The quality of materials
The durability of a pruning shears depends largely on the quality of its materials. A good investment will allow you to keep your tool in excellent condition for several years.
- Stainless steel blades : they are corrosion resistant and ideal for a humid climate like Geneva's.
- Carbon steel blades : They provide a very precise cut, but require regular maintenance to prevent rust.
- Aluminum or composite handles : they guarantee both lightness and strength.
- Non-stick coating on the blades : it prevents sap and resin from sticking, making cleaning easier.
Finally, consider whether the blades can be sharpened or replaced. Pruning shears with removable parts are a good choice because they extend their lifespan without having to buy a new tool.
Conclusion
Choosing the ideal pruning shears for maintaining your garden in Geneva requires several criteria: the type of cut, ergonomics, quality of materials, and ease of maintenance. Whether you have a small urban garden or a large green space, good pruning shears will make your job easier and keep your plants healthy.